Power for the planet

Putting nature at the heart of renewable energy development Lapwings by David Norton (rspb-images.com) Norton David by Lapwings

Contents Redshank by Niall Benvie (rspb-images.com) Benvie Niall by Redshank 2 Foreword

4 Climate change: the big picture – time is running out Signs of change in the natural world

8 The task ahead – meeting the 80% challenge Why energy saving and renewable energy are essential Saving energy – time to get serious Taking control – planning for a sustainable energy future Renewable energy – do we have the resources we need?

12 Our vision – for a green energy future

14 Renewable technologies – energy and wildlife Wind power Wave power Tidal power Bioenergy Snowdrops by Chris Lloyd (rspb-images.com) Lloyd Chris by Snowdrops Industrial solar power Domestic solar power Hydropower

26 From vision to reality – policies for a green future Best practice in land-use planning Protecting special places Planning the grid Resourcing the experts

34 Conclusions and recommendations

The RSPB believes renewable energy can be developed in harmony with the natural environment

1 Mark Hamblin (rspb-images.com) Hamblin Mark Foreword Mark Avery, Director of Conservation, the RSPB

A safe climate future is in our hands – but only just. The vast With the right Government signals to businesses and majority of scientists attribute the past century’s upsurge in individuals, a mix of renewables technologies – coupled global temperature to human activity and say the possibility with energy saving and efficiency – could make up the to limit further warming rests with us. power generating capacity that will be lost.

Greenhouse gases from human activity have sent average Worryingly, the UK has one of the worst records in Europe temperatures soaring more quickly than at any time in the on overall renewable energy use. It has so far addressed last 650,000 years. We have only until 2015 to send these this shortfall with some disastrously ill-informed renewable emissions into irreversible decline and avert dangerous energy schemes. A prime example has been enthusiasm to climate change. increase the use of liquid biofuels in transport, exposed as a huge environmental liability when scientists and non- It is time for urgent action, but not for panic. Leaders the governmental organisations publicised the greenhouse gas world over must take decisive, cool-headed steps to switch emissions and habitat loss caused by many of these fuels. the global economy away from fossil fuel dependence and towards truly green, renewable sources of energy. The The RSPB passionately believes that it is possible to deploy UK Government has already taken the laudable step of much renewable energy in harmony, rather than in conflict committing to 80% cuts in carbon emissions by 2050; with, the natural environment. We can demonstrate through the Scottish Government commitment is for 80% cuts in our research how renewables, at the scale required to meet greenhouse gas emissions in the same time period. the climate challenge, can underpin sustainable economic growth in the next half-century. We can show how Our Governments must, broadly, do two things to cut renewables can be developed across our terrestrial and emissions in a secure, environmentally sustainable way. They marine landscapes without harming precious wildlife. must embark on a massive drive to reduce energy demand and increase energy efficiency; and they must send a bold In the following pages, I hope you will be reminded of the signal to industry and civil society that renewable energy will urgency of the climate challenge facing us, and also inspired be the UK’s first choice for new power generation. by the possibility of revolutionising the way the UK does business. We have combined our UK-wide analyses on the Many energy saving and energy efficiency measures will economic potential and broader sustainability of renewable save money up front; others will pay back the investments energy with case studies to illustrate how successful by businesses and homeowners very quickly. Energy saving renewable projects can deliver jobs, emissions cuts, and does no harm to wildlife or the natural environment. It’s enhancement of the natural environment. The UK could astonishing we haven’t grasped this easy win sooner. become a green energy leader, rather than a laggard, in Europe and the world. Renewable energy technologies have tremendous potential to deliver the remainder of the UK’s needed emissions cuts I hope you will support us and work with us to achieve our in the next decade. They will not replace fossil fuels vision of a world where climate change and its impacts on completely during that time. But many old fossil fuel and people and wildlife are limited, and the UK boasts a rich nuclear power plants will be decommissioned in this period. environment that will sustain us all. Warming waters around the UK mean there are fewer sandeels for puffins and other seabirds to eat 2 Ernie Janes (rspb-images.com) Janes Ernie Climate change: the big picture time is running out

There is no longer any question that climate change is variations, such as four and five degree rises at the poles, having serious impacts on the human and natural world, which will have huge impacts on species and habitats. and, without urgent action to stop it, has the potential to quickly become a global catastrophe. To keep below two degrees, we will most likely need to limit atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide (the The Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a most prevalent greenhouse gas) to between 350 and 430 collaboration of the world’s pre-eminent climate scientists, parts per million. Before industrialisation, the concentration has found that the evidence of a warming world is now was around 280 parts per million. Now, our burning of fossil “unequivocal”. It is “very likely” that human activity has fuels has driven it up to 383 parts per million and the figure caused “most of the observed increase” in average global rises every year. We’re already in dangerous territory. temperatures since the mid-20th century.1 The IPCC estimates that the global temperature will rise a The proof for the IPCC’s stark conclusions is in rising further 1.8 to four degrees Centigrade this century. Global average air and ocean temperatures around the world, sea level is projected to rise between 18 and 59 centimetres melting snow and ice at high latitudes, and rising global in the same period, putting low-lying settlements at risk. sea levels. Eleven of the past 12 years have been the Droughts will become more intense and heavy precipitation hottest on record. More extreme weather events, a more frequent. trademark of climate change, are becoming more common. All this will happen before we consider the risk of For example, the intensity of tropical cyclones (hurricanes) in irreversible events such as the potential loss of the Arctic the North Atlantic has increased in the past 30 years. Heavy and Greenland Ice Sheets, which would bring sea level storms are becoming more frequent over most land areas. rises of metres rather than centimetres, and would challenge our ability to sustain our existing civilisation in Meanwhile, human society continues to churn out many parts of the world. greenhouse gases at unprecedented levels. The IPCC found that if it were not for human activity, volcanic We still don’t fully understand the feedback loops between activity and solar cycles would have made the period the oceans, land and atmosphere that could either diminish since the mid-1990s cooler than preceding decades. or fuel further global warming. But we know that we must do everything possible to limit climate change and its Scientists agree that average global temperatures must be impacts. stabilised at two degrees Centigrade above pre-industrial 1 Synthesis Report. Contribution of Working Groups I, II and III to the Fourth Assessment Report of the levels if we’re to keep climate change at manageable Inter-governmental Panel on Climate change. IPCC. 2007. IPCC: Geneva, Switzerland. levels. Why two degrees? Average global temperatures rose by 0.6 degrees in the 20th century and the greenhouse gases already in the atmosphere mean some further warming is inevitable. We can’t stop climate change from happening. Our challenge is to stop it getting even worse. Even a two degree average temperature rise masks local The RSPB is campaigning against new coal-fired power stations in the UK that do not operate carbon capture and storage technology from the start. These would be a climate disaster. 4 6 Northern brown argus by Mark Hamblin Mark by argus brown Northern Signs of change in the natural world

Climate change poses a grave threat to all life on earth. Swallows are arriving a week earlier, on average, than they By mid-century, one third of land-based species could be did in the 1970s. Some bird species are hatching their eggs on the pathway to extinction because of climate change. earlier, so in some cases the insect food on which the By the end of the century, climate change could be the chicks depend is no longer available at exactly the right time. greatest single cause of biodiversity loss worldwide. Fossil and pollen records show that previous rapid climate shifts Seabirds around UK coasts show among the most worrying have resulted in mass extinctions. signs yet. Changed conditions in the North Sea have altered plankton populations. This has, in turn, reduced the numbers In the UK, climate change is already affecting species’ life of sandeels – the staple diet of many seabirds such as cycles: snowdrops are flowering earlier, oaks are leafing kittiwakes, Arctic terns and guillemots. As a result, these earlier, and butterflies are emerging earlier in spring. species have suffered massive breeding failures in their colonies, especially from 2003 onwards. David Slater David Even if we succeed in limiting global temperature rise to two degrees, we can expect UK winters to become warmer and wetter, and summers hotter and drier. Birds at high latitudes, alpine species, species of small islands, seabirds and wetland species will be particularly vulnerable to these changes.

Researchers at the RSPB, Durham and Cambridge universities have modelled the future impacts of climate change on birds. They have found that the suitable climate conditions for European breeding birds will shift, on average, 550 kilometres north-east by the end of the century, under a moderate warming scenario2. Such shifts in potential range raise pressing questions: will the species manage to disperse such distances across land and water? Will the right habitat be available for them to move into?

For wildlife, as for people, there is great uncertainty and huge risk to survival if climate change spins out of control. The greatest hope for preserving species diversity lies in transforming our approach to energy generation and use and keeping climate change manageable.

2 A Climatic Atlas of European Breeding Birds. Brian Huntley, Rhys Green, Yvonne Collingham and Warming springs mean oaks are leafing earlier Stephen G Willis. 2006. Lynx Editions. Scientists believe climate change is responsible for the expansion of the Northern brown argus butterfly’s range in the UK in the past 30 years 6 The task ahead Saving energy meeting the 80% challenge time to get serious Steve Knell (rspb-images.com) Knell Steve Why energy saving and renewable energy are essential policies and actions that will set us on track to meet these A truly sustainable energy policy must be founded on long-term targets. using energy wisely, not squandering it at every turn. To keep the world within a safe climate of two degrees To do this requires all of us, as citizens, to save energy Centigrade temperature rise above pre-industrial levels will Many climate analysts have sought to identify cost- where we can – in our cars, homes and offices, by driving require global cuts in emissions of at least 50% by 2050. effective and sustainable pathways to a very low-carbon less, turning off lights and turning down heating. However, Historically, developed countries like the UK have produced economy in 2050. The RSPB and WWF contributed to one though we can take on a part of this task, individuals the vast bulk of the greenhouse gas emissions, which are such analysis by IPPR3, which used the Government’s own cannot act alone – we need our Governments to create causing today’s climate pollution. Carbon dioxide is the most energy models to identify practical approaches to an 80% the right conditions and incentives for the UK to become prevalent of these. To take account of our responsibility for emissions cut, which would also safeguard wildlife. a lean, green economy. these emissions, and to enable developing countries to tackle poverty as they switch to a lower-carbon development Our project confirmed the results of previous studies. Unfortunately, policy makers at UK, national and local path, the onus is on industrialised countries to make the Saving energy across the economy, and switching from scales have all so far failed in this most basic task. Many greatest cuts. The UK and other industrialised nations must high to low-carbon sources of electricity and heat, are the homes and indeed many Government buildings still pour cut their emissions by at least 80% by 2050. first crucial steps needed towards a safe climate future. out waste heat and light every hour of the day and night, Tackling emissions in the power sector, in particular, is costing millions of pounds a year and causing millions of The UK Government’s adoption of the 80% target in law, essential if we are to make the rapid cuts needed from tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions. The UK wastes in its 2008 Climate Change Act, is a vital step in the right 2015 to avoid an ecological and humanitarian disaster. vast amounts of heat from inefficient power stations – direction, as is the proposal for a similar target in Scottish 64% of energy from conventional fossil fuel power plants 3 The 80% challange. IPPR, WWF and RSPB, 2007. climate change laws. Now, however, we need to see is lost as heat. Meanwhile, old buildings also leak large amounts at the point of use.

Lasse Petersen Lasse The UK Government has set itself a target of reducing Avoiding dangerous climate change energy use by 25% by 2020. This is admirable, and essential – but much more will be needed if this is not to Clean, low-carbon sources of energy must be deployed become another missed milestone. To meet this goal, we Climate change has affected plankton distribution at unprecedented scales within the next decade, if we need to pledge to do everything we can to cut our energy in the North Sea, with knock-on effects for sandeels use. And, at the same time, we should ask Government to are to avoid dangerous climate change. Renewable and the seabirds that depend on them for food energy is critical to building a low-carbon economy in do everything it can to put energy saving at the heart of a the UK, which is why the RSPB supports a new low-carbon future. At the very least, we must see action European target, to ensure that 20% of our energy in these four critical areas: comes from renewable sources by 2020. In the UK, our • The cars we drive must be the most efficient that • Our existing buildings must become more efficient – technology can deliver – product standards and incentives share of this target is 15% of energy use across the Governments can help deliver this through incentives for efficient vehicles should lead the way. economy. At present, less than 2% of our energy is for refurbishment. renewable, so we have a huge, but exciting challenge • Our power stations must be required to use rather than ahead of us, to deliver this step change in renewable The worst impacts of climate change will be felt in • New buildings must be truly carbon zero – homes waste the heat they generate – vast quantities of heat that technology deployment, in ways that work in harmony developing countries, which have least historical and offices must meet the highest possible standards could be used in homes and businesses are wasted every with wildlife and the natural environment. responsibility for greenhouse gas emissions from day one. minute of every day by old-fashioned power stations.

8 9 Taking control Renewable energy planning for a sustainable future do we have the resources we need? Peter Cairns (rspb-images.com) Cairns Peter

Energy saving is essential to tackling dangerous climate Renewable energy technologies and change. Alone, however, it will not be enough. Avoiding decentralised forms of power generation must Poyry – examining the impacts dangerous climate change also requires a “renewables also be at the heart of the UK’s emissions revolution” in the developed economies of the world, including reduction plans. There is no other way for us The RSPB, WWF, and Greenpeace commissioned Poyry, the the UK. The RSPB is campaigning for a massive increase in to stay on track to achieve an 80% emissions energy analysts responsible for the modelling behind the UK the amount of energy we generate from renewable sources – reduction by 2050. Government’s Renewable Energy Strategy, to examine the but we also believe that this can and should be done without impacts of: unnecessary and irreversible damage to our vulnerable and Meeting our new EU target of 15% renewable valuable natural environment. energy by 2020 is a first, but essential, step • Applying sustainability constraints to certain renewable towards this long-term goal. Yet doubts have technologies. We have a choice, right now, about how we build our been raised about whether this is possible if new, low-carbon economy. We can rely on the current we also apply policies that protect wildlife at • Varying the assumptions about capacity for some market structures and planning system to deliver “least cost home and abroad. technologies. solutions”, or we can design new green infrastructure in a way that involves communities and respects nature. The RSPB wanted to be certain that we could The main conclusions were that: meet our renewable energy goals in ways that • If the Government meets its own aspirations on energy We believe that a carefully planned approach to renewables protected wildlife, and so, together with efficiency, there is easily enough renewable energy capacity to will deliver more green energy, more quickly, and with less Greenpeace and Friends of the Earth, we meet the 15% EU renewable target whilst freezing use of liquid damage to wildlife, than the “laissez faire” approach we have sponsored a study to look at the capacity and adopted so far. Our record on renewable energy in the UK is costs of different renewable technologies in biofuels, and applying environmental safeguards to biomass the third worst in Europe – a scandal for a country with some the UK. use in the power and heat sectors. of the best wind, wave and tidal resources in the world. Yet, • Because of the high costs of liquid biofuels, these scenarios we also have pockets of excellent practice, where developers We worked with Poyry, respected energy are not significantly more costly than those generated by the and environmentalists work together to deliver outstanding consultants who had already undertaken projects. analysis of the 15% renewable energy target original Poyry analysis. for the Government, to test what would • None of the scenarios suggested that meeting the target We need to build on these partnerships if we are to happen if we applied important environmental was dependent on the construction of a tidal barrage on the become a world leader in developing and deploying renewable constraints to their models. Severn Estuary. technologies. This means taking a sustainable approach to energy, which recognises environmental and social, as well as The outcomes were heartening. If we meet the In the long-term, renewable energy will need to give us traditional economic costs and benefits, in decision-making. UK Government’s targets for energy efficiency, even more than our 15% target in 2020. It must be at the heart It means forging partnerships between Government, industry we can indeed rule out expansion of the most of the UK’s aspiration to build an ultra-low-carbon economy and communities, at UK, national, regional and local scales. damaging technologies – specifically liquid in the next 20 to 30 years. Only then can we reduce our overall It also means avoiding impacts on fragile wildlife, which is biofuels – and still achieve our 15% goal by already suffering the impacts of climate change, pollution, 2020. Nor does any of our modelling work emissions by at least 80% by 2050 and help avoid dangerous invasive species, habitat destruction and persecution. Only by suggest that a large tidal barrage on the Severn climate change. We are confident that, with the right investment finding common ground and working together can we address Decision-making should balance environmental and is essential to delivering the renewable energy in new technologies and environmental safeguards, we can the threat of climate change with the urgency it demands. social with traditional economic costs and benefits we need within this timescale. achieve our vision for a green energy future.

10 11 Mike Lane (rspb-images.com) Lane Mike Our vision for a green energy future

The RSPB is calling for a renewable energy revolution that Home-grown works for the climate, for nature, and for sustainable jobs The UK has an enviable renewable energy resource, and a in the UK economy. We say the UK’s approach to pitifully small renewable energy industry. New green renewable energy must be: infrastructure could be the engine for economic recovery – but this means the right policies and investment now. Urgent We need to reduce emissions from our power sector by more Outward facing than half by 2020, if we want to win the battle against The UK is a group of islands, but it is unlikely that it will be an dangerous climate change. Our renewable energy vision must energy island forever. In fact, we are already connected to the be big enough, bold enough and fast enough to play its part. continent through electricity grid networks, and these will become more extensive every year. We should plan our energy future knowing that we can import – and export – renewable The London Array wind farm proposal was modified to account energy. This outlook gives us the potential for a wholly for important populations of wintering red-throated divers renewable power system, rather than just a partial one.

Kind to nature Our natural environment and the diverse species it supports are not ours to give away or damage, where there are alternatives. It belongs to our children. We must work London Array offshore wind farm: protecting birds at sea to promote technologies and design policies that maximise benefits for, and minimise damage to, wildlife. In June 2005 a consortium of wind farm developers (London However, following further successful negotiations, London Array Ltd) submitted applications for a flagship offshore wind Array Ltd agreed to limit the number of turbines that can be Considerate of scale farm in the greater Thames Estuary. The proposal included initially constructed to 175. This number of turbines will not Regardless of technology, most renewable energy sources c.271 turbines, with a generating capacity of one gigawatt – adversely affect the wintering red-throated diver population can be deployed at different scales. Smaller developments, enough to power 750,000 homes in London. Once of the estuary. Once built, the developer will monitor the which generate and use power locally, tend to have less developed, the wind farm will be the biggest in the world. effect of these turbines on the red-throated divers. Only Carolyn Carolyn Merret (rspb-images.com) damaging impacts on the natural environment than large, if the impacts are considered to be acceptable in the industrial-scale schemes. There is certainly a need for large- The developers had worked constructively with the RSPB Environmental Impact Assessment, will any further turbines Long-term scale renewable power, but we must also support as many and others throughout their pre-application studies. During be allowed. To achieve at least an 80% cut in greenhouse gas emissions community-scale projects as possible. the baseline surveys for their Environmental Impact by the 2050s, we will need a zero carbon power sector by Assessment (EIA), the developers identified a previously Permission has now been granted for the offshore the 2030s. This will require novel renewable solutions – such Empowering unknown internationally important population of wintering development. A Special Protection Area (SPA) is also likely as an extended electricity grid connecting the UK and other Fostering household and community ownership of energy is red-throated divers, both in the proposed development site to be designated for the wintering red-throated divers in parts of Europe. It will also require investment in technologies one of the easiest ways to help people to understand the and in the Thames estuary as a whole. This newly identified the greater Thames Estuary. This case shows how early and such as wave power, which are not yet mature, but have a connection between energy use and climate change. population more than doubled the previous wintering red- continuing consultation and negotiation by a developer, both critical role to play over the coming decades. We must take Powerful communities, working for a common goal, are one throated diver population estimates for the UK. Because of willing to listen to concerns and act on them, can lead to a the action needed now, to ensure that we have the right of our greatest assets; harnessing their efforts to deliver an the likely disturbance impacts of the wind farm upon the red- positive outcome for nature and for renewable energy. technological solutions at our fingertips in the future. energy revolution is part of the recipe for success. throated divers, the RSPB initially objected to the proposal.

12 13 Renewable technologies Wind power energy and wildlife

Renewable energy is essential to tackling climate change. developers to avoid inappropriate sites, and to design Wind energy, on and offshore, will be critical to delivering into turbine towers or blades and be killed or injured, Renewable energy projects cause little damage to wildlife projects with minimal wildlife impacts in mind. Different renewable energy over the next two decades, when particularly during adverse flying conditions, such as storms, when they are properly located and designed. We believe technologies have the potential to affect the climate, emissions from our economy must begin to fall sharply. Its poor visibility, and low wind speeds (as some large species that a full assessment of the environmental impacts of wildlife and the natural environment in different ways, and sustainability depends on location and design. rely on updrafts). renewable energy projects should be carried out to enable each requires special consideration. Many wind farms have no discernible effects on wildlife All of these impacts can be avoided and managed by at all. For those that do, seldom are the effects serious choosing appropriate locations and then designing wind Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com) Gomersall Chris enough to affect wildlife populations. It is also encouraging farms so that they work in harmony with the natural that some wind farms – particularly those offshore – have environment. Poorly located projects, such as the Tarifa and Lewis peatlands wind farm the potential to protect wildlife from other impacts, Navarra wind farms in Spain, which are situated in areas providing safe havens for spawning fish, for example. important for raptor migration, have resulted in the deaths The Lewis Wind Power proposal for a huge wind farm on of many hundreds of raptors. By contrast, in the UK, no an internationally important wildlife site was an example of However, the impact of wind farms on birds depends wind farm has yet been responsible for causing this scale how renewable energy should not be developed. crucially on where the turbines are located. If wind farms of damage to wildlife, largely because of our track record in are located on sensitive wildlife sites, the results can be assessing risks and avoiding environmental impacts through This proposal for 181 turbines (234 turbines were initially disastrous for wildlife. There are several ways in which the planning system. The RSPB hopes to help maintain this proposed) on the Isle of Lewis would have torn up wind farms can have negative impacts on birds and other track record by providing developers with locational invaluable peatlands with 137 pylons, 30 kilometres of wildlife: disturbance, habitat loss or damage, and collision. guidance and encouraging them to consult early with us. overhead cable, 141 kilometres of roads, and 181 concrete We have already produced such guidance for Scotland and bases, each up to 1,000 cubic metres. The RSPB fought Birds may be displaced from their usual locations by are preparing it for England. The locational guidance shows hard against this proposal because it would have removed construction noise or the presence of operating turbines and the most sensitive areas for birds. These areas require the habitat for rare and threatened bird life protected under maintenance activities. Fish and marine mammals may be particularly rigorous environmental impact assessment to European law: golden eagles, golden plovers, dunlins, disturbed by the construction of offshore wind farms and the determine whether and how renewable energy projects can red-throated and black-throated divers, and merlins. vibrations of operating turbines at sea. Different species’ be designed in a sustainable way. ability to adjust to these disturbances over time varies widely. We also fought a long, hard campaign against this The RSPB welcomes early consultation by developers to misguided proposal because we believed that allowing Wind farms can displace birds by creating a barrier to assess how wind farms can avoid harm to wildlife, and we a development of this scale to go ahead on a Special migration paths or to flights between breeding, feeding, applaud well-considered wind farm proposals, such as the Protection Area for birds could put at risk the entire roosting and moulting areas. When this happens, birds one gigawatt Thames Array project, which have been European network of protected wildlife sites. In April 2008, may have to fly further to get around the turbines, which designed with wildlife in mind. A good land-use planning we were delighted when the Scottish Government turned requires more energy and so could decrease birds’ system is critical to securing good outcomes for renewable down the Lewis Wind Power proposal. This sent a strong strength and survival rates. There is also growing evidence energy and wildlife. In our view, close collaboration message that renewable energy developments must be that turbines may pose a problem for bats, notably through between Government, developers and environmentalists delivered to reach Scotland’s climate change goals, but not collision deaths. could see wind energy being rolled out more quickly and at at any price. In its judgment, the Scottish Government a greater scale than we have achieved so far – but we recognised that the developers had failed to explore Wind farms, and their associated roads, tracks, cable cannot afford to leave this to chance. Next we set out our alternative locations that could meet the project objectives trenches, or buildings may physically destroy birds’ proposals for securing effective planning for renewable without large-scale damage to the natural environment. feeding, breeding or roosting sites. Birds may also fly energy projects in the future. Important habitat for dunlins would have been lost had the Lewis peatlands wind farm proposal gone ahead 14 15 Slavonian grebe by Sue Kennedy (rspb-images.com) Kennedy Sue by grebe Slavonian Wave power

Wave energy is an emerging technology, with the potential to supply a very significant level of Marine renewables – a special challenge renewable electricity. Theoretically, the wave power resource around the UK’s coast is more Our marine environment has been abused and than twice UK electricity consumption. The greatest potential is in the seas off western neglected for too long – and now, on top of the Scotland and south-west England, because of impacts of pollution and over-fishing, comes the the power of Atlantic waves. added menace of climate change. The UK’s seabirds are some of the first wildlife victims of Wave power devices are designed to absorb the energy from waves and convert it to electricity. climate change impacts at sea – all the more There are three main types of wave technology: reason to make sure that in planning renewable buoyancy devices, fixed or semi-fixed pressure energy projects, we do no further damage to differential devices and channelling devices. The world’s first commercial-scale machine to these fragile ecosystems and the amazing generate electricity into the grid from offshore wildlife they support. The Glendoe hydro scheme has been developed in a way that wave energy is the Pelamis Wave Energy minimises disturbance to Slavonian grebes in the area Converter, employed off the coast of Portugal. There is room for renewable energy projects and Other prototypes are being developed and tested all the time. marine wildlife to live side by side. To achieve this, however, we must have good information about Offshore wave power devices could contribute the marine environment, and a robust network of to underwater noise that disturbs sea mammals protected sites to safeguard the most precious Glendoe hydro scheme: managing impacts on bird life and fish. We are investigating whether there are likely to be impacts on seabirds; it is likely that and vulnerable areas of our seas. Using these any effects will depend on bird species and tools, we will be able to guide development into Glendoe electricity generating station has been developed Special Protection Area, SPA), would be disturbed by the location. It is important that these devices avoid, places where it will not have unnecessary by Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE), with a capacity to loud noise of blasting and drilling anticipated in construction. wherever possible, concentrations of feeding and generate 100 megawatts of electricity. The scheme will breeding seabirds and other wildlife, where harm adverse impacts on biodiversity. We need a be situated on the western edge of the Monadhliath After long negotiations with SSE, the RSPB withdrew may occur. Shoreline wave devices are likely to strong lead from Governments across the UK, to Mountains, east of Fort Augustus, and involves the their original objection on the condition that the developers have fewer impacts on marine species but should bring existing data together in one place; highlight construction of a 35 metre high, 1,000 metre long dam pursued mitigation measures to address all concerns around also be sited to avoid important bird colonies and knowledge gaps (many of which are already across two rivers at the head of Glen Tarff and the building the SPA. The developers trialled loud noises before feeding areas. Thorough environmental of the power station in a cavern deep inside Borlum Hill on construction and found it did not affect species in the SPA; assessment and monitoring are needed to avoid known, for example seabird distributions at sea); the shore of Loch Ness. The RSPB initially objected to the they also created an exclusion zone around the SPA and the any such problems. The RSPB encourages the and to focus new data collection to fill those gaps. proposal because of concerns that Slavonian grebes, and a eagles’ eyrie, to ensure that project workers did not disturb development of devices that produce the least With these basics in place, we can get on with range of other rare birds such as common scoters, golden wildlife. The project is now near completion. Wildlife noise possible, and with moving parts that harnessing the immense power of our oceans. plovers, red-throated divers and nesting golden eagles in a monitors are satisfied that it has guarded local wildlife minimise oil spill risks and do not endanger wildlife. neighbouring European wildlife site (the Glendoe Lochans extremely well.

16 17 Tidal power The power of the Severn – Government's big decision

Proposals for a barrage across the Severn Estuary have estuaries. Some proposals, such as the so-called Tidal power also has great potential to generate large Tidal projects could displace species, form a barrier to been around for over 100 years, but the urgency of the tidal reef, offer potentially viable alternatives to the quantities of renewable energy – but it carries with it migration, and offer a risk of wildlife colliding with climate change debate has brought them to the fore in Cardiff-Weston barrage while largely maintaining the huge risks to particularly sensitive environments, if turbines, cables or anchor devices. Since marine birds recent years. The Sustainable Development Commission habitats upon which birds depend and causing less not appropriately designed and located, and at an prefer to forage in areas of high tidal activity, areas appropriate scale. suitable for tidal power schemes often coincide with report concluded that a large barrage built between harm to migrating fish species. Energy from the feeding areas for birds. Birds that pursue fish through the Cardiff and Weston would cost at least £15 billion to estuary is not essential for meeting the renewable

Seal by Andrew Parkinson (rspb-images.com) Parkinson Andrew by Seal water, such as cormorants and divers, are particularly build, and should be a publicly-owned project. It also energy targets by 2020, but will be necessary by likely to be affected. confirmed that a Severn Barrage would fundamentally 2030. So, there is still time to conceive, test and alter the nature of the estuary and its wildlife habitats. develop an engineering solution that maximises By removing energy from the water column, tidal power schemes can also affect the transport and deposition energy output with minimal environmental damage of sediments. The richness of sediments and all the The estuary is particularly important for birds because and at lowest cost. organisms they support affects the feeding prospects for its great tidal range exposes mudflats for considerable animals all the way up the food chain. periods, offering wintering birds plentiful opportunities We will continue to engage actively with and to feed. The Cardiff-Weston barrage would increase contribute to studies of tidal power, and will seek to Like wind turbines, tidal energy schemes may generate noise and vibrations when they are being built and tidal inundation of a large area, preventing birds from ensure that any project supported by the Government operated. This could disrupt the sonar functions of marine having access to the mudflats. It is also likely to is a cost-effective part of a radical plan to tackle mammals. The substances used to construct and operate provide an impenetrable barrier to migrating fish. climate change sustainably. tidal energy schemes could also pose a risk, if toxic compounds in hydraulic fluids and vessel fuels enter the In the light of the very considerable costs of a barrage, water, harming a wide range of marine life, including fish, and the potential for it to cause large-scale and birds, cetaceans and other marine mammals. irreversible environmental damage, the RSPB has By contrast, tidal energy schemes could also benefit some welcomed a feasibility study investigating the options birds’ ability to look for food: they may provide refuges for harnessing tidal power from the Severn. from which other human activity, such as fishing and recreation, is excluded. This could lead to new spawning However, we feel that it is vital that we answer two grounds and nursery areas for fish and therefore better feeding areas. questions before we commit to any public investment in tidal barrage schemes. Firstly, we must determine The RSPB is working actively to find and support tidal whether this amount of taxpayers’ money is best power solutions for our estuaries and our seas that invested in a large barrage, rather than any other generate clean energy but avoid irreversible and climate change solutions. unnecessary damage to these extraordinary ecosystems. Tidal power schemes should be located where their The scale and siting of such projects are vital to their noise and vibrations do not disturb marine mammals sustainability. Secondly, we think it is vital to examine all the

options available for harnessing the power of our Redshank by Niall Benvie (rspb-images.com)

18 19 Bioenergy

Bioenergy has a vital role to play in moving towards a low- Policies for a sustainable bioenergy sector carbon economy, but it is also a scarce resource that needs to be produced and deployed in the most efficient and Bioenergy is a crucial component of our green energy future. sustainable way possible. This requires an understanding However, its expansion also carries significant risks to the of the range and capacity of different sources of bioenergy; environment and to sustainable development if it happens at their greenhouse gas efficiencies; the potential the expense of natural carbon stores, wildlife habitats or food environmental impacts of their production and use; and production. Governments in the UK must ensure that the the best ways to deploy them in the energy system. emerging bioenergy sectors deliver the greatest greenhouse gas savings, with minimum damaging impacts. We believe Bioenergy is, in theory, “carbon neutral”, as growing that this can be achieved by acting now, on a simple, three crops absorb carbon dioxide and then release it back into point plan: the atmosphere as they are burnt as fuel in vehicle engines, boilers, stoves or power plants. However, the full life cycle • Policy incentives and targets based on greenhouse emissions of different bioenergy types can vary dramatically. gas savings and sustainability of production, not volumes. Bioenergy produced from many kinds of wastes or Tackling climate change must be the primary goal of harvested from sustainably managed woodlands is likely bioenergy policies. This means cutting down on the Cut reeds from RSPB reserves to deliver good greenhouse gas benefits, compared with emissions generated during bioenergy production – for could be made into pellets for fossil fuels. Some dedicated bioenergy crops, however, may example, by avoiding damaging land-use change and use in boilers, providing a generate significant greenhouse gas emissions from direct curbing polluting fertiliser and pesticide inputs. We should sustainable source of bioenergy or indirect land clearance (that is, what land use the crops also use scarce bioenergy resources as efficiently as we Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com) are replacing), the use of inputs such as fertilisers and can, for example in combined heat and power systems. pesticides, and transport. • Robust sustainability standards for all bioenergy supplies. There are also many potential end uses for bioenergy. It is Compulsory legal standards, established early in the life of far more efficient to use bioenergy to generate heat and the UK’s bioenergy industry, would increase investor and Sustainable biomass from RSPB reserves power in dedicated boilers, for example, than to use liquid consumer confidence. bioenergy in cars. As a result, it makes more sense for the The RSPB gathers a lot of waste biological material as a ways to make these waste materials into useful energy climate if we use bioenergy supplies to power our homes • Guidance on the location and scale of bioenergy crop result of the nature conservation work on its reserves. We products. We are producing firewood for local sale and can and businesses than to power vehicles. production in the UK. Expansion of bioenergy crops in the UK remove scrub, cut reeds and remove non-native tree species, produce wood chips for biomass boilers, although currently risks displacement of important habitats, such as wetlands for example. When these do not have a market, they are local demand for wood chips is low. Different sources of bioenergy also create a wide range of and heathlands. Standards applied to bioenergy suppliers will usually burnt or left in piles to rot down. Sometimes this potential impacts on the natural environment. Harvesting go some way to reducing these risks, but additional action takes years to happen, or we run out of room to store the The RSPB is also scoping options for acquiring a mobile crops from sustainably managed woodlands or wetlands, will be needed, for example by ensuring that Environmental waste material. wood pellet-maker. This would enable us to take waste for example, can have a positive benefit on the local Impact Assessment rules are followed with care, and that wood and reed products from reserves around the UK and environment, as well as a good impact on the climate. At grants for planting bioenergy crops are dependent on At our Arne reserve in Dorset, our focus has been on create a sustainable fuel with good market prospects. the other end of the scale, the clearance of biodiversity- and appropriate location. Sustainable land-use planning at local removing non-native trees to restore a vibrant heathland Wood pellets would also be suitable for the biomass boilers carbon-rich forests and wetlands to grow crops for liquid and regional levels will be needed, to ensure that the location ecosystem. This has resulted in large amounts of “waste” that heat our own office buildings; we have such a boiler biofuel production is little short of environmental madness. and scale of bioenergy production does not harm wildlife. timber, brash and bracken. We have been investigating installed at RSPB Old Moor in South Yorkshire.

20 21 Industrial solar power Domestic solar power Andy Hay (rspb-images.com) Hay Andy Domestic solar power takes two forms. The first is solar Microgeneration technologies such as domestic solar photovoltaic (PV) systems: energy systems that directly power can be deployed widely with minimal impacts convert energy harnessed from the sun into electricity. on biodiversity, while having the potential to contribute These are suitable for use in both urban and rural locations significantly to reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. and are adaptable to almost any building that has sufficient exposure to light. PV comes in an increasingly wide It is important that these measures receive Government range of roofing and building materials and as a modular and industry support as part of a range of technologies technology there are no limitations on the size of system needed to address climate change. For example, the that can be installed. RSPB is calling for the introduction of a “feed-in tariff” in the UK that would reward small-scale producers of Solar water heating systems use heat from the sun to renewable energy for selling their excess power back work alongside a conventional water heater. The technology to the electricity grid. is well developed and can provide almost all of a domestic property’s hot water during the summer months and about Easing the cost of and access to these technologies for 50% year round. The average domestic system reduces consumers, and creating the right financial rewards, will carbon dioxide emissions by around 400 kilogrammes per help drive demand and build new markets in the UK for year, depending on the type of fuel replaced. domestic solar power. Solar panels by Andy Hay (rspb-images.com) Hay Andy by panels Solar More Government support is needed to make domestic solar power systems (above, and opposite) affordable and accessible in the UK

In some countries, larger scale roll-out of solar farms has commercially operating Concentrated Solar Power plants meant covering large land areas with solar panels. This can have been built in Spain. There are plans for much greater take two forms: the first is covering a large area of land with development of this technology. photovoltaic panels and harvesting the energy generated. The second is called Concentrated Solar Power, where mirrors are Industrial-scale solar plant developments can have a greater used to concentrate sunlight to create heat. This latter direct impact on biodiversity than domestic-scale systems, technology has the potential to generate large amounts of depending on where such projects are located. Land deemed usable energy at low cost in sunny areas. The heat may be suitable for these may be marginal in an agricultural context used to raise steam to drive turbines and generators in the but could nevertheless be important for wildlife. In order to conventional way or it may drive Stirling engines with minimise these risks, developers should seek to avoid generators. “Concentrating photovoltaic” (CPV) uses mirrors protected and sensitive sites, manage surrounding land for to concentrate sunlight on to special heat-resistant PV panels the benefit of wildlife, and limit the ecological disturbance that convert the concentrated sunlight into electricity. The first created by associated buildings and technical appliances.

22 23 Hydropower

Identifying sensitive areas for wind farm development

Hydropower developments vary in size, type and operation. Water level fluctuations in reservoirs and the loss of habitat Research by the Institute for European Environmental In Germany, spatial planning has helped deliver large How they are designed and managed affects how they diversity can have indirect impacts on birds such as black- Policy (IEEP) for the RSPB shows that approaching onshore quantities of onshore wind energy, whilst protecting nature. impact the environment. Hydro schemes can have throated divers by decreasing the invertebrates and fish wind development with robust spatial planning can help Systems have been evolved at the Länder (regional) level, significant and lasting impacts on wildlife if they disturb they eat or by flooding or stranding their nests. deliver renewable energy and safeguard nature. There which exclude development from sensitive areas, whilst species during construction, destroy habitat or create are good examples of such approaches in the UK and creating a uniquely positive planning regime in other zones, dramatic changes in physical and hydrological conditions. Most adverse impacts of hydropower development can beyond. We also recognise that there could be pitfalls to where development is generally permissible if there are no If inappropriately scaled and designed, they can result in a be mitigated through careful siting, by avoiding important such approaches, if initial mapping efforts slow project conflicting public interests, including nature conservation. permanent loss of freshwater and terrestrial habitats, conservation areas and by careful operational procedures. development and alienate investors. Different spatial

drainage of wetlands and bogs, and subsequent loss of A majority of the older schemes were designed without approaches yield important lessons on how to balance wildlife TiplingDavid (rspb-images.com) by plover Golden habitat and species diversity. Large dams often disrupt the prior consideration of their environmental impacts. protection with the urgency of tackling climate change. natural flows of rivers and migratory pathways of fish such The Water Framework Directive, European legislation in as salmon and eels. Dams and reservoirs act as major place since 2000, requires that best practice measures be The RSPB and Scottish Natural Heritage have produced sediment traps, interrupting natural transport of sediments. taken to minimise environmental damage. a ‘sensitivity map’ showing those areas in Scotland where wind farms would pose a high- to medium-risk for important bird populations. We hope the map will minimise the Atlantic salmon by Mark Hamblin (rspb-images.com) Hamblin Mark by salmon Atlantic conflict between wind farms and vulnerable bird populations by alerting decision-makers and developers to the most sensitive sites. Scotland has very ambitious renewable energy targets – with a goal for 50% of electricity from renewables by 2020. In this context, planning strategically for the siting of wind farms and other renewable energy projects is vital to sustainability.

In Wales, a spatial approach to wind deployment has been taken through the production of TAN8, which identifies Strategic Search Areas: preferred areas for wind farm development. This approach is intended to ensure that protected sites for nature are removed from future development pressure, and deliver much more rapid deployment of onshore wind within the SSAs. The development of TAN8 highlights the importance of ensuring that applications can still progress while strategic planning exercises are underway; clear guidance is needed to ensure they are not used to block applications during their development. In Northern Ireland, the RSPB worked with Government and stakeholders to help draft Planning Policy Dams can interrupt fish migration pathways, but these problems Statement 18 – Renewable Energy, setting clear policies for can often be overcome with careful siting and design onshore windfarm construction in harmony with nature. Sensitivity maps can help developers to avoid wind farms in areas that are high risk for birds, such as upland areas where golden plovers breed

24 Wind farm by Peter Cairns (rspb-images.com) Cairns Peter by farm Wind

From vision to reality Novar wind farm: policies for a green energy future a pioneering development in Scotland

Sustainable firewood by Sarah Alsbury/Dorset Heathland Project (RSPB) Project Heathland Alsbury/Dorset Sarah by firewood Sustainable Npower’s wind farm at Novar in Ross-shire was one of The RSPB has a vision for a sustainable energy future. the first to be built in Scotland, in 1997 – at 34 turbines Making this a reality will require policy changes in some (17 megawatts), it was a relatively large-scale critical areas. We outline our proposals for the UK’s development at the time. The RSPB was involved from renewable energy future below. the beginning, as the site contained small numbers of typical moorland species such as golden plovers and red Rewarding renewables grouse. We did not have serious concerns about the bird impacts but sought some monitoring of breeding birds Renewable energy sources are not yet price competitive and bird strikes, which was carried out for the first five with conventional fossil fuels, and so meeting our targets years. There was little conclusive evidence of significant for renewable energy supply and climate change will changes in breeding numbers or distribution, and an require additional incentives and rewards. Some extension to the wind farm was approved by the Highland renewable support measures, for example, support for Council in June 2005, for a further 16 1.25-2 megawatt renewable heat, are promised in the next few years. turbines. The RSPB was supportive of this extension.

It is vital that these policies are bold enough to bring about a green energy revolution, delivering the low-carbon prosperity that we are seeking for all the countries of Moel Moelogan wind farm: a the UK in the next decade. Well-designed support for renewable energy will enable us to bring on a wide range carefully designed project of possible renewable technologies and to ensure that they are deployed without harm to nature. The Moel Moelogan wind farm, Conwy, North Wales, was constructed in 2007. It consists of nine turbines, and Governments should benchmark their renewable the RSPB was involved in project design from the start, an support policies against the following simple criteria: involvement that resulted in the removal of a number of turbines, and the relocation of others away from sensitive • Ambition – is the policy ambitious enough to meet wildlife areas. The RSPB brokered a planning agreement the climate challenge? For example, will the Renewables • Sustainability – does the policy protect the natural between the developer and the local council to ensure Obligation ensure that at least 45% of our electricity is environment and sustainable development, for example that important habitats on the development site were from renewable sources by 2020, in line with through rewarding only bioenergy supplies with good protected and enhanced, and a comprehensive monitoring European targets? greenhouse gas savings and sustainability records? programme was set up to inform this. A steering group was set up, on which the RSPB sits. The project is in its • Time-scale – is it long-lasting enough to give • Accessibility – does the policy enable participation by a early stages, and all the signs are promising that this confidence to those investing in the UK’s renewable wide range of energy generators including individuals, development can deliver both renewable energy and energy future? businesses and communities? wildlife conservation.

• Range – does the policy provide support for a range of Renewable support policies must meet all these goals if technologies, such as sustainable wave and tidal power they are to provide the financial engine for the UK’s green options, which may not yet be close to market? energy future.

26 Best practice in land-use planning Strangford Lough marine current turbine: a promise of wildlife-friendly tidal power

Meeting our renewable energy targets will require a broad mix Respect for protected sites Strangford Lough in County Down is a site protected any dead sea mammals quickly and assessing the cause of renewables, including wind, wave and solar power, and It is possible to deploy renewable energy such as wind farms under the European Birds and Habitats Directives for its of harm. Fortunately, there have been no collisions so far. sustainable bioenergy. The RSPB supports the roll-out of onshore away from protected nature areas without curbing importance to wildlife. It is a large, shallow inlet and bay, these technologies, but we need planning systems that are fit the scale of a country’s ambitions to tackle climate change – with coastal lagoons, reefs, and exposed mudflats and A Science Group, comprising the ecological consultants for the job. Planning rules are often seen as a barrier to the this has been achieved in Germany and Denmark. There is no sandflats, all of which support common seals, a host of and relevant government departments, has been set up to deployment of renewable energy, and yet good planning is evidence from the IEEP study to suggest that respect for breeding birds (common terns, Sandwich terns) and make final decisions on how to respond if a major wildlife one of the most powerful tools we have to ensure that Natura 2000 sites, for example, results in a significant limiting wintering birds (knots, redshanks, light-bellied brent geese incident occurs. The Science Group consults openly with a renewables deployment is rapid and equitable, and happens of onshore wind development. and other waterfowl). wider stakeholder group that includes conservation groups without undue impacts on nature. such as the RSPB. Appropriate use of assessment tools In early 2008, a marine current turbine began operating As a contribution to the debate, the RSPB asked the Institute Environmental assessment tools can work effectively to in the Lough, supplying 1.2 megawatts of power Overall, the effects of the turbine on wildlife are predicted for European Environmental Policy to examine planning help deliver renewables projects. Strategic Environmental through cables to the shore. The entire project is within to be small, particularly set against natural fluctuations in systems across the EU and UK regions, to find which Assessment and Environmental Impact Assessments, used the boundaries of a European-designated site (a Special seal populations, and the impacts of human activities such approaches work best for onshore wind farm development in a sequential and complementary way, can make a real Protection Area and Special Area of Conservation), and as fishing. What we really don’t know yet is: if this and nature. They identified some critical issues affecting the difference to the quality of outcomes. so risks to wildlife had to be considered, from the outset. installation proves successful, how much of the information success of renewables planning systems, and examples of In the early stages of planning, inadequate attention was will be transferable to arrays of marine current turbines? good practice which could help to inform UK planning regimes Early and close collaboration given to assessing the ecological impacts of the project. The Strangford Lough project is a promising start, and in the future. Evidence from across the EU shows that early data sharing However, in the later stages, these shortfalls were made provides a good foundation for expanding the use of this and consultation during the planning process is the most up, following collaboration with organisations like the technology. Appropriate use of spatial planning effective way of ensuring good project siting and design, once RSPB and the Ulster Wildlife Trust, and the end result There is clear evidence that spatial planning can help rather initial guidance has been provided through spatial planning and looks promising for the natural environment. than hinder the roll-out of renewables. To be helpful, it should Strategic Environmental Assessment. TiplingDavid (rspb-images.com) by dolphins Bottle-nosed be timely and plans should balance the exclusion of certain The developers, Marine Current Turbines (MCT), areas from development with measures to promote Benefits for communities minimised the impact of construction on the seabed. They development widely in less sensitive areas. We are convinced Renewable energy projects can give a boost to communities invested heavily in wildlife survey work before construction: this can be done while respecting local considerations. living close to them. Evidence from Denmark shows that tagging and tracking seals, surveying birds and cetaceans rewarding communities that develop clean energy can help on land and underwater for two years, and minimising the Downsides of an unplanned approach speed up deployment. Consideration of community benefits effects of turbine noise on cetaceans. The modelling of Where a less planned approach has been taken to is in its early stages in the UK, but should become an integral the turbine suggests that turbine speed and flow is very renewables planning, two kinds of risks are evident. In part of future strategies. unlikely to suck creatures in. Spain, renewables deployment has been rapid, but has taken place at unnecessary cost to the natural environment. A planned approach to renewables development has many They put in place a robust system for monitoring the In areas of the UK, a less planned approach has resulted in benefits. Planning must be seen to be transparent and impacts of operations on wildlife after construction. Should delays to renewable projects, with projects held up or accountable, with provision for protecting national assets such monitoring reveal negative wildlife impacts, they have rejected altogether at the local level. as wildlife, and guidance to counter objections that could de-rail provided for adaptive management so that operations can our transition to a low-carbon economy. The RSPB wishes to change accordingly. It was predicted that negative impacts play a constructive role in the development of good planning may be more likely on marine mammals, rather than on systems and practice, in the UK, and at a regional and local level. birds. There is a careful procedure in place for identifying

28 29 Protecting special places from human impacts Beinn an Tuirc wind farm: managing and monitoring for eagles Mark Hamblin (rspb-images.com) Hamblin Mark The RSPB and other environmental groups have fought for correct one of the common misconceptions about many decades to ensure that habitats that support rare Natura 2000 – which is that once a site is designated all and vulnerable species are protected from the adverse economic activities have to stop. This is simply not true impacts of human development. We are particularly proud and it is a shame that this myth continues. The Natura to have helped shape some of the best nature protection network consists of living landscapes in which farming, laws anywhere in the world, in the EU Birds and Habitats fishing, forestry and hunting can continue. Even major Directives, and the network of “Natura 2000” sites which development projects can be carried out once certain they have created. In the UK, sites within this network safeguards have been respected. The experience from range from chalk grasslands in Southern England to most Member States is that it is perfectly possible to peatlands in Scotland; elsewhere in Europe they protect use the flexibility provided in the nature directives in an Alpine meadows and Eastern European steppe, Spanish intelligent manner and find a good balance between cork woodlands and Finnish lakes. biodiversity protection and economic needs.”

The Birds and Habitats Directives are a vital tool for It is very likely that in meeting our renewable energy targets securing our natural environment for future generations and facing up to the realities of climate change, proposals to enjoy, when we have conquered the looming threat will come forward within protected areas for wildlife, of climate change. Far from being an impediment to including Natura 2000 sites. Designation per se does not In 2008, a golden eagle pair nesting in the special habitat sustainable development, they provide a litmus test for block development. However, such sites contain some of management area beside the wind farm fledged two chicks its implementation. The Sustainable Development our most important and sensitive species and habitats; Commission, in its report on the potential for tidal assessing and addressing the environmental impact of energy in the Severn, noted that the Nature Directives: energy developments is vital. Species across the world are already becoming early and largely powerless victims of • are guided by sound science climate change – another challenge to add to the impacts When this 46 turbine wind farm was developed, there was less attractive to eagles, although there have been some of persecution, habitat loss and pollution. It seems to us a risk of harm to golden eagles: there are eagle territories difficulties in achieving this. • establish governance structures which aid rational that we have a moral duty to try to manage the climate nearby, and eagles hunted within the proposed turbine decision-making crisis we have created, without adding further insults to areas as it held a good population of red grouse. To Bird surveys have been carried out since the wind farm these existing injuries. The Nature Directives can act as mitigate against the possibility of eagle collisions, a full- began operations in 1997, and they are continuing. The • represent an enlightened approach to dealing with a resource and guide to help us achieve this goal. time ranger was hired to create a habitat management aim is to study interactions between golden eagles and environmental constraints plan, overseen by representatives from Scottish Natural turbines and the impact of wind farms on eagle Heritage, the RSPB and Argyll and Bute Council. populations. It seems that the mitigation measures have • help to define those “environmental limits”, within worked well so far and some good habitat has been which sustainable development must take place. As eagles lost 280 hectares of hunting range, other habitat created. There also appears to be an increase in the was created: two golden eagle management areas (of numbers of red grouse in the management area, and black Recently, the Environment Commissioner, Stavros Dimas, 1,215 hectares and 450 hectares), as well as a 250 grouse have been seen on the site. However, more data put it very well, saying that the protection afforded by the hectare mitigation area, where non-native Sitka spruce will be needed to clarify the impact of wind farms on Birds and Habitats Directives: was removed and the area was returned to a heather- golden eagles, and the RSPB hopes that data collected at grass mix. Alongside these measures, a new grazing wind farm sites elsewhere in the UK will be made publicly “… is also a very flexible system and I would like to regime was introduced to make the actual wind farm area available to inform this and other projects.

30 31 Planning the grid Resourcing the experts the need for change understanding impacts

Electricity transmission and distribution networks, as well The RSPB believes that Ofgem and the companies who The policies we have proposed at all levels require target, and a new urgency in our approach to climate as land-use planning, will need to adapt to take account of manage the networks must be reformed, so that they expertise to make them work. We need professionals in change. Yet, if they cannot respond in a timely and well- the expansion of renewable energy across the UK. At have a duty to ensure that renewables are the first choice Governments and in Government agencies, who are informed fashion, the result will be resentment from present, there is no requirement on those who fund and for generation capacity in the UK. committed to the rapid and large-scale deployment of stakeholders and communities, and delays for developers manage the networks, either to deliver renewable energy renewables in a way that minimises damage to wildlife, and Governments. A central plank in our policies towards or to protect the natural environment. In fact, there are a We also believe that in planning renewables for and who understand the potential impacts of renewables renewable energy must, therefore, be to resource the huge number of good, environmentally sensitive connection to the grid and its extensions, they should be developments on the natural environment. experts. In the war against climate change, we cannot renewable projects, unable to start generating and obliged to look for sustainable outcomes, rather than afford to let down the front-line troops, including those providing clean energy for customers, because they are choose routes on a narrow “least-cost” basis, with little or At their current levels of resourcing, our regulators, charged with an orderly and rational transformation of stuck in an arcane “queuing” system supervised by no regard for the natural environment. This should include advisors and planning authorities will not be able meet the our energy infrastructure. Ofgem, the energy regulator. This absurd situation must active measures to encourage smaller-scale and challenges posed by a new, ambitious EU renewables be rectified immediately and not allowed to recur. decentralised energy projects. Andy Hay (rspb-images.com) Hay Andy (rspb-images.com) Benvie Niall by turbine Wind Black Law: an award winning wind farm in harmony with nature

This 54 turbine wind farm (124 megawatts) in North and South Lanarkshire and West Lothian is located in an area extensively damaged by mining, afforestation and drainage of wet heath. The area hosts a locally important population of breeding waders. The RSPB in Scotland worked closely with Scottish Power over several years, to restore habitat extensively around the development. Special measures included restoring a former opencast coal mine to wildlife habitat; removing a non-native conifer plantation; restoring a water course to benefit otters and water voles; and modifying the design to reduce its environmental impact. An Ecological Clerk of Works was appointed to oversee construction and pre- and post-construction bird monitoring are required by planning conditions. The scheme began operating in summer 2005. The RSPB was delighted that The energy regulator must free up access to this development won the award for Best Renewable the grid for good renewable energy projects Project in the 2005 Green Energy Awards.

32 Avocet by Danny Green (rspb-images.com) Green Danny Avocetby Conclusions and recommendations

We are running out of time to save ourselves, and the renewable energy is also ill-suited to securing the millions of species with which we share our planet, from investment in new technologies – particularly wave and the effects of the most dangerous experiment of all time – tidal power – which will be essential to meet our long- our unplanned experiment with the global climate. term climate goals, and to make the UK one of the world’s Unchecked, greenhouse gas emissions will create an leading green economies. environment unlike that experienced by any of our ancestors, and alien to many of the other creatures on A rapid, rational transformation to a low-carbon energy earth. If we value our civilisation, if we feel an obligation system needs strong leadership from Governments across towards our children, and take seriously our duty of care the country. It needs a vision, and it needs planned for the natural world, we must act now. investment in the right places at the right times. We believe this is possible – indeed, we believe that it is an In the UK as a whole, and in Scotland, Governments exciting and inspiring project – if Governments in the UK have already pledged themselves to the long-term goal are prepared to work with industry, stakeholders and of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 80% from 2050. communities, and if they follow a simple recipe for a This is laudable, and is a target for which tens of sustainable green energy system: thousands of RSPB members have campaigned. The tough part begins here and now, however, in taking 1. Saving energy 4. Shaping the vision generate their own energy. This must change. Rewarding the action needed today to take the carbon out of Any sustainable energy policy must be founded on saving This is not the time to leave the future of our energy individuals and communities for green energy generation can our economy. energy first. Action to reduce energy waste from existing system to be determined by the operation of the market deliver significant carbon savings with little impact on the building stock, new homes and businesses, power alone. Governments must set the direction of travel, and natural environment, whilst ensuring that the economic This must start with energy saving; but it must also stations and car engines should underpin any green determine the boundaries within which companies make benefits of a renewables revolution are felt locally. involve a rapid switch to renewable sources of energy in energy revolution. investment choices. A vision for our energy future should our power and heat sectors. There is no time to wait; provide a guide for the development of new energy policies 7. Building the network taking the carbon out of these parts of our economy is the 2. Fixing the framework in the future. Electricity network investment should ensure that only way to achieve the emissions cuts we need in the The regime that governs the UK power sector was not renewables are the first choice for generating power in the next ten years, if we are to play our part in avoiding designed with the climate or sustainable development in 5. Securing investment UK, and that new connections are developed with the dangerous climate change. The RSPB supports this mind. New duties for the energy watchdog, Ofgem, will To ensure that industry invests at the necessary level to environment in mind. Ofgem and network operators must essential energy revolution and is keen to play an active be needed if the Government is to deliver its climate secure a green energy future, Governments must have the be given explicit guidance to make this happen. role in bringing it about. change, energy security and fuel poverty goals, in a truly right support mechanisms in place. These should have the sustainable manner. right level of ambition to meet our climate goals, and 8. Planning location and design Action in a time of crisis is not best left to chance. This is operate over extended time frames. They should support a The planning system is central to ensuring that renewables not a moment to trust the market alone to deliver the best 3. Appraising the options breadth of technologies, involve a wide range of players, deployment is timely and sustainable. The RSPB would like to outcomes at the right timescale. This approach will not A sustainable approach to renewable energy must involve and embed environmental safeguards, such as qualifying work with Governments across the UK to deliver really high guarantee the urgency we need; nor will it protect the a thorough understanding of the environmental risks and standards for bioenergy. quality land-use planning for renewables. This could combine needs of the vulnerable, and avoid trampling over those benefits of different technologies, including their impacts appropriate national, regional and local targets with spatial very assets – our natural environment, our communities – on the natural environment. It should also assess the 6. Involving communities planning and a community benefits package. In the marine that we wish to protect from the impacts of climate capacity for sustainable delivery from different For years, Governments have significantly underestimated environment, good planning will depend critically on having change. A market-led, short-term, least-cost approach to technologies – particularly bioenergy. the benefits of empowering individuals and communities to information available about our fragile seas and their wildlife.

34 35 Niall Benvie (rspb-images.com) Ernie Janes (rspb-images.com) should meet high environmental standards. environmental high meet should bad for the environment. Bioenergy products Bioenergy environment. the for bad Many first-generation biofuels for vehicle use are use vehicle for biofuels first-generation Many practice for wildlife and the natural environment Black Law wind farm, Lanarkshire: an example of best

Gordon Langsbury (rspb-images.com) Black-throated divers were threatened by an inappropriate development on the Lewis peatlands

Ben Hall (rspb-images.com) produced and used in the most efficient and Bioenergy sustainable support manner. policies should focus on achieving greenhouse gas savings and should be underpinned by strong, mandatory efficiency and sustainability standards. A new regulatory regime, applying such standards to biofuel and biomass suppliers, is needed to ensure that this industry grows in a truly sustainable manner. s s and climate 9. Using environmental laws wisely (Bird the Directives EU under Nature protected Sites Habitats Directives) are an essential part of our efforts to of part our efforts are an essential Directives) Habitats of impacts the from negative world the natural protect is a key legislation this with Compliance activity. human to sustainable commitment of test the Government’s to ensuring commit should The Government development. other with objectives energy of renewable the integration with compliance including objectives, environmental laws. environmental existing 10. Making bioenergy truly green Bioenergy has an important role to play in tackling it change. is However, also a finite resource that should be Assessing the cumulative impact of building many wind farms in one coastal area will help avoid any potential negative impacts on birds such as whooper swans 36 For more information on the RSPB’s renewable energy work, please visit www.rspb.org.uk

UK Headquarters The RSPB, The Lodge Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2DL Tel 01767 680551

Northern Ireland Headquarters Belvoir Park Forest, Belfast BT8 7QT Tel 028 9049 1547

Scotland Headquarters Dunedin House, 25 Ravelston Terrace Edinburgh EH4 3TP Tel 0131 311 6500

Wales Headquarters Sutherland House, Castlebridge Cowbridge Road East Cardiff CF11 9AB Tel 029 2035 3000

www.rspb.org.uk

The RSPB speaks out for birds and wildlife, tackling the problems that threaten our environment. Nature is amazing – help us keep it that way.

Front cover: Niall Benvie (rspb-images.com) The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is a registered charity: England & Wales no. 207076, Scotland no. SC037654

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